A process unit including a photoconductor unit having a photoconductor drum, a developing unit having a developing roller disposed in a development housing, and a support shaft means for supporting the developing unit pivotably relative to the photoconductor unit. The developing roller is disposed such that its surface is pressed against the surface of the photoconductor drum in a developing zone. The photoconductor drum and the developing roller are rotationally driven such that their respective surfaces move from below to above in the developing zone.